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Explore the delightful flavors of Italian cuisine with our Savory Italian Sausage Pasta Skillet with Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomatoes. This one-pan dish is a celebration of rich, hearty ingredients that come together to create a satisfying meal, perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings alike. The star of this dish is undoubtedly the Italian sausage, which infuses the pasta with robust flavors, while the fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and essential nutrients. To elevate the dish even further, sun-dried tomatoes contribute a tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements, making every bite an explosion of flavor.

Savory Italian Sausage Pasta Skillet

Discover the joy of Italian cooking with our Savory Italian Sausage Pasta Skillet featuring Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes. This one-pan meal is packed with flavor, combining the richness of Italian sausage with fresh spinach and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. Quick to prep and easy to clean, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Bring the warmth of Italian home cooking to your table with this delightful recipe that’s sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 2 cups) penne pasta

1 lb Italian sausage (choose mild or hot, casings removed)

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 medium onion, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil)

4 cups fresh spinach

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which should take around 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

      Brown the Sausage:

        Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the sausage is nicely browned and fully cooked. Once ready, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.

          Sauté the Vegetables:

            In the same skillet, add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic, stirring for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant and the garlic is lightly golden.

              Combine Ingredients:

                Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with the previously cooked sausage, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything well and let it cook together for about 2-3 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.

                  Add Spinach and Pasta:

                    Gradually incorporate the fresh spinach into the skillet, stirring until it wilts down. Then, add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta absorbs the delicious flavors from the mixture. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

                      Finish with Cheese:

                        Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Toss gently to ensure the cheese evenly coats the pasta.

                          Serve:

                            Portion the hearty pasta into bowls, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color, and enjoy your savory Italian sausage pasta skillet while it is warm!

                              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                                - Prep Time: 10 minutes

                                  - Total Time: 30 minutes

                                    - Servings: 4

                                      Presentation Tips:

                                        For an elegant touch, serve the pasta in shallow bowls, topping each serving with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil before garnishing with basil leaves. This not only enhances the flavor but also elevates the visual appeal of the dish!